Block Mania (1987) Board Game

Block Mania is a board game released in 1987 by Games Workshop. It is set in the dystopian future of the Judge Dredd comic book series, where rival blocks in Mega-City One engage in violent conflicts with each other. The game is designed for 2 players, but can accommodate up to 4 players with the expansion set, Mega-Mania.

Game Components of Block Mania

Game board featuring two city blocks

Various weapon and unit cards (e.g., spray paint, guns, flamethrowers, heavy lasers)

Robo-Dogs, Sucker Guns, and trip mines (included in the Mega Mania expansion)

City-Def units and vigilantes

Obese fatties and armed mobs

Sky-Rail cars

Mega Mania expansion pack for up to four players

How To Setup Block Mania

To set up Block Mania, players first lay out the game board, which represents two opposing city blocks. Each player selects their units and weapons, and places them on their respective block. The objective is clear: cause as much damage as possible to the opposing block before the Judges intervene. Additional components, such as the Mega Mania expansion, can be integrated to increase the player count and add more gameplay elements.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Strategy, War Game

Number of Players: 2 (up to 4 with the Mega Mania expansion)

Objective: The player whose block is the least damaged at the end of the game wins.

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Unit deployment and movement
– Combat using various weapons
– Strategic destruction of opposing block units and structures
– Timed gameplay to reflect the impending arrival of the Judges

Player Experience

Block Mania offers a fast-paced and chaotic experience, capturing the manic atmosphere of the Judge Dredd comics. Players control entire city blocks, orchestrating armed mobs, obese fatties, and highly trained City-Def units to wreak havoc on their opponents. The game is designed for quick play, with simple rules that keep the game moving at a brisk pace.

Pros

Fast-paced gameplay: Encourages quick decision-making and action.

Immersive theme: Faithfully captures the Judge Dredd universe.

Expansive options: The Mega Mania expansion adds more players and game elements.

Simple rules: Easy to learn and play.

Cons

Limited player count: Originally designed for two players, though the expansion allows up to four.

Repetitive gameplay: Some players might find the repetitive nature of causing damage and defending their block monotonous.

Personal Thoughts on Block Mania

Block Mania is ideal for fans of the Judge Dredd universe and those who enjoy strategic, fast-paced war games. It’s a great addition to any retro gaming collection or for players looking for a unique, thematic experience. While it might not offer the complexity some modern gamers seek, it provides a fun, nostalgic trip back to the gaming landscape of the 1980s.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.